Observers expect both the SCAAI and the Civil Aviation Authority to open a full inquiry into the incident involving a small aircraft that flew over Warsaw on June 4 during a major opposition rally. KO deputies indicated on Wednesday that the plane did not have authorization for such a flight and raised questions about the event’s intent and safety implications.
Was there a possibility that someone would face legal consequences? The government spokesperson, Piotr Müller, addressed this on social media, echoing the concerns voiced by KO MPs. His message reflected the political tension surrounding the episode and the duty of authorities to evaluate any breach of aviation rules.
At the root of the discussion was the June 4 gathering in Warsaw, commemorating the 1989 elections and led by Donald Tusk and the Civic Platform. During the event, a small aircraft traced a banner reading
“To Berlin”, provoking strong reactions from participants and observers alike.
READ MORE: A plane with the inscription
“To Berlin” appeared above Tusk’s rally. What were the participants thinking?
It was a PiS provocation
Jóński described the incident at a Wednesday press conference as a provocation during the June 4 march. He characterized the airborne banner as an attempt to inflame tensions among demonstrators and bystanders alike.
The MP explained that the orchestrator of the move appeared to be connected to the PiS circle in Mielec, who leased the aircraft. The plan reportedly involved hanging a banner in Konstancin-Jeziorna to trigger laughter or anger, but the resulting provocation did not achieve its intended effect, according to his account.
Maciej Lasek expanded on the regulatory side, noting that aviation rules typically permit flight over Warsaw at altitudes above 2000 metres, with exceptions tied to arrivals and departures from Chopin Airport and Babice Airport. In this case, the aircraft operated at an altitude of roughly 500 to 600 metres and did not conduct takeoff or landing at the two nearby airports, KO MPs stated.
The June 4 flight was described as a clear violation of air traffic regulations by Lasek, who emphasized the need for accountability and a thorough review of all circumstances. He highlighted that Article 212 of the Aviation Act carries penalties for violations, including potential prison time of up to five years, depending on the specifics of the case.
Consequently, lawmakers called for an investigation by the State Commission on Air Accidents, with formal notifications to the Civil Aviation Authority to confirm the pilot’s qualifications. They also did not rule out reporting the matter to the public prosecutor’s office as part of a comprehensive review of the incident.
Jóński argued that the matter warranted decisive action to restore order in the skies and prevent any recurrence of such disruptive acts during public gatherings. He promised a full explanation of the events as more details emerged.
Do they want to put a man in jail?
Piotr Müller, the government spokesman, weighed in on the discussion via Twitter, pointing to Donald Tusk’s dissatisfaction with the banner that read
“To Berlin”. The remark raised questions about potential criminal consequences for the person responsible for the stunt, as reflected in public discourse and official inquiries.
The episode has sparked renewed debates about political slogans, public safety, and the role of aviation regulations in high-profile demonstrations. As authorities prepare to conduct a comprehensive assessment, the public awaits a clear explanation of what transpired, who was involved, and what steps will be taken to prevent similar actions in the future.